Job Description

Associate Director/ Director Operations- Preclincical Research

Primary responsibilities: 

Direct the science and operations involved in the direction, conduct, and execution of Preclinical Analytical Laboratory Sciences operations and studies. Provide scientific direction, guidance, and oversight to the scientific-technical staff across:

• Ocular Toxicology
• Medical Device Toxicology
• Cell and Gene Therapy
• Small molecule Bioanalysis and PK

Maintain and implement efficient procedures and processes to provide high-quality standards of study design and timely reporting. Build preclinical biomarker and bioanalysis capabilities to augment existing services. Serve as the technical representative to support sales interactions with new and prospective clients. Keep abreast and maintain a broad knowledge of state-of-the-art models to serve industry needs and requirements 

Other important functions include: 

● Mentor and train the scientific staff. 

● Provide a senior-level review of reports, protocols, and related documents for appropriate scientific content and interpretation of studies in collaboration with other senior staff. 

● Oversee and ensure report timelines are maintained and perform scientific reviews to ensure high-quality study design and timely reporting.

● Build preclinical bioanalysis and biomarkers capabilities in an effort to expand the client base.

● Help evaluate opportunities as needed for new technology, and implement new scientific initiatives to add additional or expanded services. 

● Ensure departmental policies, practices, and procedures adhere to regulations related to preclinical studies' conduct. Establish new policies and practices to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and corporate policies.

● Contribute to recruitment of research scientists and support staff. Interview and participate in the selection of qualified departmental personnel. Recommend, personnel actions, including hiring, promotions, and raises. Partner with Human Resources in the handling of disciplinary issues. Prepare and/or approve appropriate personnel action paperwork. 

● Monitor performance of direct reports. Provide regular counseling and coaching. Prepare and deliver salary and performance reviews. Develop short- and long-range operating objectives, organizational structure, staffing, and budgetary requirements.

Oversee the development of a departmental plan for backup and succession of key departmental personnel.

● Develop and recommend a departmental budget for Management approval. Authorize expenditures in accordance with the budget. Approve budget and expenses of subordinates. 

● Ensure optimum performance of group function. Recommend and implement techniques to improve productivity, increase efficiencies, cut costs, take advantage of opportunities, and maintain state-of-the-art practices. 

● Direct the development and communication of departmental systems, SOPs, policies, and procedures. 

Candidate Requirements: 

● Masters Degree in pharmacokinetics, chemistry, biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline required. Ph.D. preferred. 

● DABT is preferred but not required.

● Minimum of 10 years relevant laboratory experience in a contract research organization (CRO), biotechnology, or pharmaceutical environment. 5 years management experience, including staff management and development, and financial responsibility including budgets. 

● Expertise in small molecule PK and Ocular research is a plus but not required. 

● The position requires good communication skills and attention to detail. 

● Strong work ethic, self-motivation, and the ability to adapt to a dynamic team environment are keys to success.

This position is an in-office management position and requires the candidate to be on-site.

Relocation assistance is available

This is a full-time role and is eligible for full benefits and company/performance bonuses